Rains are yet to hit the city, but the recent pre-monsoon showers has managed to attract many winged beauties to the green pockets.
The chirping sound and beautiful colours of these birds has brought a cheerful feel to the forest cover of the city, say environmentalists.
As the western regions of India, including Mumbai, Thane and Tungareshwar, have a tropical monsoon climate, a number of migratory birds flock here during this time of the year for breeding.
''The Hawk Cuckoo is one such bird which is seen during the rains. The Indian Pitta, which has nine shades of colour, is another attraction. The Pied Crested Cuckoo, a black and white beauty, migrates from Africa during this season. The arrival of this bird is an indicator of the onset of monsoon," says Atul Sathe, assistant director (education and communication) at the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS).
Avinash Bhagat, an avid bird-watcher and member of a city-based environment organization, says, "During this season, the forest is abundant with insects, which is the primary diet for birds. They come here to breed as they have plenty of food available. Some solitary birds, like the Pied Cuckoo, lay their eggs in the nests of others."
"We have observed multiple sightings of the Pied Crested Cuckoo, Common Hawk Cuckoo, Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher and Indian Pitta at Parsik Hills, Yeoor and Nagla range forests over the last few days. We have also spotted some Pied Cuckoos at Thane creek recently," he added.
Besides migratory birds, the light showers have also brought in its share of butterflies and fireflies.
While many green activists have started planning nature trails and treks, forest officials are conducting clean-up drives to ensure that these winged guests don't face any health hazards.
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